For twenty years, Harley & Indian enthusiasts in Australia have been recreating the rivalry that was so much a part of motorcycling in the Twenties, Thirties, and Forties of the last century. In 2011, that rivalry was brought to America where the bikes were built. The 2011 Harley Versus Indian Race was a success. The Harleys won and in 2012 the Indians are out for revenge …

May 10-12, 2012 organizers have planned rides through the California gold country, Yosemite, and the surrounding area. During the ride, there will be checkpoints, timed mileage sections and other challenges. At each checkpoint the rider will be earning points for his brand of motorcycle. At the end of the event a huge banquet to announce the Brand victor and the top Indian Harley riders. Entries are limited to Indian & Harley Motorcycles 1965 & earlier. Month of May brings spring flowers, flowing waterfalls, and great weather to Yosemite. So join for 3 fun days of riding and competition. Ride will depart May 10, 2012 from 40530 Highway 41, Oakhurst Ca 93644. More info at Indian Versus Harley or call 951-656-1998.

14 Responses to “Harley Versus Indian. It Could Get Ugly…”

I’m a “Harley Guy”. Having said that I wish Polaris/Indian good luck. It will be great to have another American motorcycle for people to choose from. Since the Asian motorcycle companies have not been able to effectively compete in the “Classic” motorcycle market, the Indian marque will provide a viable option to Harley IF they are able to capyure and continue the cutural/classic aspect of a great Indian motorcycles of the past; and technelogically current as Harley has done. Competition is good for both companies and is even better for the the customer base who will reap the benifits of constant improvement and price pressure it will bring.

Ya gotta love the rivalry among owners of the two brands going on to this day. That rivalry, for me, was cutely captivated in the back-in-the-day rhyme: “You can’t wear out an Indian Scout, or its brother the Indian Chief. They are built like rocks to take hard knocks – it’s the Harleys that cause grief.” Anyone out there know a rhyming rebuttal from the Harley camp?

You know… the Kings Mountains Indians were beautiful and had great components and finish..my gues is that Polaris saw the opportunity to take what they did in NC and finally establish Indian as a major player in the HD segments they have dominated for so long…. no if they would only bring back the in-line 4 cyl. for the future…!! It’s going to be a great rivalry for sure… All American motorcycle enthusiasts will benefit.

This is a 10 year old Company vs. a 109 year old Company, not much of a real competitive race. Even though the name has been a part of Motorcycle History, Indian has not been represented as the True Indian since 1953 or so. This is a Polaris Indian. I wish them well and it looks like a nice Replica, but I don’t believe their quest of being the old Indian Legend is accurate!

Bluestrada.
I know a few KM Indian owners that might like to talk to you about the beautiful fit and finish and quality components on their $30k plus motorcycles.
Just spoke to one today that has ANOTHER problem with a 2010.
This guy is becomng just a little skeptical!!!

This competition was a lot of fun and the weather held out until departure when it then snowed/rained which served to just add to the adventure. The festivities arranged in the evening added to the commraderie and gave competitors an opportunity to poke at each other with good-natured jibes over brand preference. Don’t let the possible weather issues be an excuse to miss out on this fun event. Show up and ride your bike with like minded riders through beautiful scenery and learn a bit about the Caliornia history in the process. Besides, it’ll be a blast to experience first-hand which camp will beat the pants off the other. Harley won last year, think they can keep the title??